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Loosen Set Screw and Remove Handle — Remove the Old Shower Handle

Beginner

Part of project

How to Replace a Shower Knob or Handle: A DIY Guide · Step 3 of 5

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In this video

If the handle itself is loose on the stem, locate the set screw, which is typically on the back of the handle. Use the correct size Allen wrench to turn the screw counter-clockwise. You only need to loosen it enough to lift the handle off; you do not need to remove the screw completely. After loosening, pull the handle straight up and off the splined valve stem.

Goal: Remove the faucet handle for adjustment

  • Keep a set of both metric and imperial Allen wrenches handy, as faucet hardware can vary.
  • Make sure the sink drain is closed before loosening the set screw to avoid losing it.

Used in this video

  • Allen Wrenches (Tool Type: Allen Wrench) — To loosen and tighten the set screw that holds the faucet handle in place.
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FAQs

What's the most important safety precaution to take before replacing my shower handle?

Always ensure the water supply to your shower is completely turned off before starting. This prevents accidental flooding and potential water damage. If individual shut-off valves for your shower are unavailable, you must turn off the main water supply to your entire home.

Do I need any special tools beyond basic screwdrivers for this shower handle replacement project?

While a flat-head screwdriver is usually sufficient for removing decorative caps and screws, a handle puller tool can be incredibly useful. If your old handle is stuck due to corrosion or mineral buildup, a puller will help remove it without damaging the valve stem or the handle itself.

How long should this project take for a beginner, and what's the typical cost for a new shower handle?

For a beginner, this project typically takes 30 minutes to an hour, assuming no major issues like heavily corroded parts. The cost for a new shower handle can vary widely, from $20 for basic models to $100+ for higher-end or brand-specific designs, depending on your existing faucet's requirements.

My new shower handle doesn't seem to fit correctly, or it's wobbly after installation. What should I check?

Shower handles are not universal; they often need to be compatible with your existing faucet brand and valve stem type. Double-check your new handle's compatibility with your shower's make and model. Ensure the handle is fully seated onto the valve stem and that the set screw is tightened securely, but avoid over-tightening which can strip threads.

Transcript
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Okay. I'm going to loosen up that screw and see if I can pull this off. I got to be careful with these set screws because if it unscrews all the way, it could drop into the sink and go down the hole. So I guess I should pop that like that just to be on the safe side, huh? I don't know if it has to do with loosening up this other set screw back here or not. But that back one, you know, I don't know if there's a, maybe this little set screw, maybe there's only one. It seems like there, see? Look at that. Pull it off. Yeah, there's a screw on that other side, but I don't know what it's really doing. It's not tight or anything. On the other side, see there's two of them. But they ended up just tightening up the one.

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